Where to Watch Ken Burns’ The Civil War?
Ken Burns’ documentary series, The Civil War, is a groundbreaking and critically acclaimed production that has been educating and captivating audiences for over three decades. The series, which originally aired in 1990, consists of 11 episodes that explore the American Civil War, from its causes and battles to its aftermath and legacy. If you’re interested in watching this seminal documentary series, here’s where you can find it:
Streaming Services
- Amazon Prime Video: All 11 episodes of The Civil War are available to stream on Amazon Prime Video. If you’re not a Prime member, you can sign up for a free trial or subscription.
- PBS: You can also stream The Civil War on the PBS website, although you may need to log in with a cable provider to access certain content.
- Apple TV: The Civil War is available on Apple TV, where you can purchase individual episodes or the entire series.
- Google Play: You can also purchase individual episodes or the entire series on Google Play.
- Vudu: The Civil War is available on Vudu, where you can purchase individual episodes or the entire series.
- DVD: If you prefer to own a physical copy, you can purchase the DVD set on Amazon or other online retailers.
TV Networks
- PBS: If you have a cable subscription, you can catch The Civil War on PBS during its regular broadcast schedule or on-demand through your local PBS station’s website or app.
- National Geographic: The Civil War occasionally airs on National Geographic, although this may vary depending on your location and cable provider.
- History Channel: You may also be able to catch The Civil War on the History Channel, although this is less likely due to their focus on more contemporary programming.
Digital Libraries and Archives
- Kanopy: Many universities and public libraries offer access to The Civil War through the Kanopy streaming service. Check your local library’s website or visit a branch to inquire about availability.
- Internet Archive: The Internet Archive, a digital library and online archive, makes The Civil War available for streaming or download through their website.
Educational Institutions
- Colleges and Universities: Many colleges and universities offer The Civil War as part of their curriculum or through their streaming services. Check with your institution’s media services department to see if they offer access to the series.
Conclusion
Ken Burns’ The Civil War is a landmark documentary series that offers a powerful and thought-provoking exploration of one of America’s most tumultuous periods. Whether you’re interested in history, documentary film, or simply want to learn more about the American Civil War, The Civil War is an essential watch. With the series available on a range of platforms, from streaming services to digital libraries and archives, there’s no excuse not to experience it for yourself.
Recommendations
- Begin with the Introduction: The Civil War features a haunting and powerful introduction that sets the tone for the series. Take a few minutes to watch it before diving into the series.
- Watch the entire series: While The Civil War can be watched as individual episodes, the series is truly meant to be experienced from start to finish. Set aside a few days and immerse yourself in this epic documentary series.
- Take notes and watch with a guide: To get the most out of The Civil War, consider watching it with a guide or taking notes. The series is dense and complex, and a guide can help you keep track of the events and timelines.
Episode Guide
Here is a list of the 11 episodes of The Civil War, along with a brief description of each:
| Episode | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | "The Cause of War" | The first episode explores the causes and events leading up to the Civil War. |
| 2 | "Very Bloody Affairs" | Episode 2 delves into the early battles of the Civil War, including Bull Run and Shiloh. |
| 3 | "Simple Courage" | This episode focuses on the role of women during the Civil War, as well as the experiences of African Americans. |
| 4 | "Sometimes Ambition Takes the Form of Murder" | Episode 4 examines the personal and political conflicts that threatened to tear the Union apart. |
| 5 | "The Universe of Battle" | This episode explores the war’s increasing brutality and the impact it had on civilians. |
| 6 | "War Is All Hell" | Episode 6 chronicles the battles of Chickamauga, Chattanooga, and Wilderness. |
| 7 | "War Is Hell" | In this episode, the Battle of Gettysburg is examined, as well as the subsequent retreats and battles. |
| 8 | "The Better Angels of Our Nature" | Episode 8 explores the war’s turn in favor of the North, as well as the role of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass. |
| 9 | "War Is Cruelty and You Cannot Refrain from Its Cruelest" | This episode focuses on the war’s end, including the surrender at Appomattox. |
| 10 | "War Is Hell, Part II" | The final episode of the series examines the Reconstruction era, including the 13th Amendment and the rise of Jim Crow laws. |
Conclusion
Ken Burns’ The Civil War is a landmark documentary series that offers a powerful and thought-provoking exploration of one of America’s most tumultuous periods. With its availability on a range of platforms and its epic scope, it’s an essential watch for anyone interested in history or documentary film.
